In recent weeks, the unwavering support of the United States for Israel has come under the spotlight, sparking concerns about its impact on diplomatic ties with Arab nations. The public backing of Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip, following a deadly attack by the armed wing of the Palestinian group Hamas, has raised questions about double standards and strategic shortsightedness, as well as the potential long-term consequences for US relations in the Middle East.
US-Israel Relations Under Scrutiny
Perennial US allies such as Jordan have not minced their words, openly criticizing what they perceive as Washington’s tacit approval for Israel’s actions in Gaza. With over 1,405 lives lost and more than 7,028 Palestinians killed in the ongoing conflict, the US stance has drawn sharp criticism. While behind closed doors, the US may advocate for more prudent Israeli decision-making, it continues to provide unwavering military support. This has raised concerns about the United States relinquishing its position as an impartial mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Former senior Department of State official, Josh Paul, who recently resigned in protest, expressed his concerns, stating, “Washington is giving unambiguous and unquestioned military support to Israel despite what many in the region see as a deep injustice. We have tried to frame ourselves as an honest broker, but we’re removing what little credibility we had left in that role.”
Arab Nations Condemn Double Standards
King Abdullah II of Jordan delivered a passionate speech during a Cairo summit, where he expressed the prevailing sentiment in the Arab world. He pointed out the perception that Arab lives seem to matter less than Israeli lives and accused the West of applying international law selectively. This criticism has been particularly acute in light of the West’s backing of Ukraine since Russia’s invasion. The contrast between the treatment of these two conflicts has become increasingly apparent, leaving many in the region feeling uneasy.
Arab leaders, such as Jordan and Egypt, have taken steps to distance themselves from the US stance on Israel’s actions, canceling meetings and openly condemning the “war and the massacres against Palestinians.” Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry criticized the Western “double standards,” emphasizing that causing suffering to Palestinian civilians cannot be justified as “self-defense.” The Saudi Foreign Minister also called for a firm stand to end the military operations.
Impact on US Standing in the Middle East
The repercussions of the US’s staunch support for Israel are not confined to diplomatic circles. The Arab public’s discontent has found expression in widespread protests, stretching from Iraq to Morocco. People are increasingly frustrated with the American support for Israel, seeing it as a threat to both Palestinian lives and regional stability.
The protests in Egypt’s Tahrir Square, reminiscent of the Arab Spring uprisings in 2011, underscore the anger and frustration among the Arab population. In addition to public dissatisfaction, there are reports of a “mutiny” within the State Department, where staff is preparing a rare “dissent cable” to voice internal criticism of the policy.
The Biden administration’s attempt to sidestep the Palestinian issue in favor of normalizing relations with Arab states is seen as counterproductive. Experts argue that there can be no stable normalization in the Middle East without a political solution to the Palestinian question. The US strategy is viewed as “short-termist” and superficial, emphasizing stability over rights.
As the conflict in Gaza intensifies, the world is witnessing a fundamental shift in the region’s geopolitical landscape. The standing of the United States as a superpower is in decline, and its allies are asserting themselves more independently and balancing their ties with other global powers. The US now faces a critical moment in the Middle East, as its policies draw increasing scrutiny and criticism from Arab nations and their populations.
